The Kedarnath Temple, nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, is one of the most revered shrines for Hindus. Located at an altitude of 3,583 meters, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of devotees every year. Due to its remote location, reaching Kedarnath can be a challenging journey, especially for elderly pilgrims and those with health concerns. This is where the Kedarnath helicopter service becomes a vital option, offering a convenient and quick way to access the temple.
Why Choose a Helicopter for Kedarnath?
Traveling to Kedarnath by helicopter offers several advantages:
- Time-Saving: The traditional trek from Gaurikund to Kedarnath takes around 6-8 hours, depending on the trekker’s pace. In contrast, a helicopter ride from the designated helipads takes just 10-15 minutes, making it a highly time-efficient option.
- Comfort and Convenience: The rugged terrain of the trek can be daunting, especially for senior citizens and those not accustomed to high-altitude trekking. A helicopter ride provides a smooth and comfortable journey, reducing physical strain.
- Scenic Views: The aerial view of the majestic Himalayas, dense forests, and the Mandakini River is a visual treat. The helicopter ride offers breathtaking panoramic views that are an added bonus to the pilgrimage.
How to Book Helicopter for Kedarnath?
Booking a helicopter ride to Kedarnath is a straightforward process, but it’s important to plan ahead, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
1. Online Booking for Kedarnath Helicopter Booking
Several companies operate helicopter services to Kedarnath, and most of them offer online booking options. You can visit the official websites of these operators or use government-authorized portals. Also you can contact Devotional Point to book your Helicopter tickets at no extra cost. Some of the key operators include:
- Himalayan
- Trans Bharat
- Aryan Aviation
- Pawan Hans
Here are the contact details of these operators:
Himalayan:- +91-7969014440
Trans Bharat:- +91-9540043400
Aryan Aviation:- +91-1244200231
Pawan Hans:- 0120-2476700
During the booking process, you will need to provide details such as:
- Name of the passengers
- Age
- Gender
- Contact information
- Preferred date and time of travel
It’s advisable to book your helicopter tickets well in advance, as the slots fill up quickly, especially during the Char Dham Yatra season (April to November).
2. Helipad Locations
Helicopter services to Kedarnath are available from various helipads in Uttarakhand, including:
- Phata: One of the most popular helipads, located about 21 km from Kedarnath. The ride from Phata takes around 10 minutes.
- Guptkashi: Located 30 km from Kedarnath, offering a 15-minute ride.
- Sersi: Another option, located 23 km from the temple, with a flight duration of about 12 minutes.
When booking, make sure to choose the helipad that is most convenient for you based on your travel itinerary.
Cost of Kedarnath Helicopter Ride
The cost of a helicopter ride to Kedarnath can vary depending on the service provider and the helipad from which you choose to fly. On average, the prices range between ₹6,500 to ₹8,500 per person for a round trip. This price typically includes a return journey and a VIP darshan pass for the temple, allowing you to skip the long queues.
| From | To | Charges (Round Trip) |
|---|---|---|
| Phata | Kedarnath | Rs. 6,570 Rs |
| Sirsi | Kedarnath | Rs. 6,398 Rs |
| Guptkashi | Kedarnath | Rs. 8,280 Rs |
Important Considerations
- Weather Conditions: Helicopter services are highly dependent on weather conditions. In case of bad weather, flights may be delayed or canceled. It’s advisable to keep a buffer day in your itinerary to accommodate any unexpected changes.
- Luggage Restrictions: Due to weight limitations, most helicopter operators allow only a small amount of luggage, usually up to 5 kg per person. Make sure to pack accordingly.
- Health Precautions: The high altitude of Kedarnath can be challenging for those with pre-existing health conditions. It’s important to consult with your doctor before planning the trip, and carry necessary medications.
- Reporting Time: Passengers are usually required to report to the helipad at least one hour before the scheduled departure time. Ensure you reach on time to avoid any inconvenience.
Kedarnath Helicopter Timings
The helicopter services to Kedarnath operate during the Char Dham Yatra season, typically from late April to early November, depending on weather conditions. The daily timings for Kedarnath helicopter services are as follows:
General Timing
- Morning Flights: Helicopter services usually begin early in the morning, around 6:30 AM to 7:00 AM. The first flights are often scheduled to take advantage of the calmer morning weather.
- Daytime Flights: Flights continue throughout the day, with departures every 20-30 minutes, depending on demand and weather conditions. The last flights typically depart around 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
- Evening Flights: Evening flights are generally not available due to visibility and safety concerns in the mountainous region. All operations usually wrap up by 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Duration and Frequency
- Flight Duration: The helicopter ride to Kedarnath from helipads like Phata, Guptkashi, or Sersi takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Turnaround Time: Each helicopter typically completes a round trip within 30-40 minutes, including landing, disembarking, and refueling.
Reporting Time
Passengers are usually required to report to the helipad at least 1-2 hours before the scheduled departure. This allows time for check-in procedures, safety briefings, and handling any last-minute formalities.
Important Considerations
- Weather Dependency: Helicopter services are highly dependent on weather conditions in the region. Fog, rain, or strong winds can delay or cancel flights. It’s advisable to keep some flexibility in your schedule to accommodate potential delays.
- Seasonal Variations: The timing of helicopter services can vary slightly depending on the time of year and daylight hours. During peak summer months, services may start earlier, while in the later months of the season, they may start slightly later.
